Crockpot Grape Jelly Meatballs are a fun and tasty appetizer that everyone loves! They mix sweet grape jelly with tangy barbecue sauce to create a yummy glaze for the meatballs.
They’re super easy to make—just toss the ingredients in your crockpot and let them cook. I always get asked for the recipe when I bring these to parties. Trust me, they’re a big hit!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Frozen Meatballs: You can use beef or turkey meatballs, depending on your preference. If you’re looking for a healthier option, try chicken or plant-based meatballs. Homemade meatballs work great too, just make sure to cook them a bit before adding to the crockpot.
Grape Jelly: This is the star of the dish for its sweetness. If grape jelly isn’t your favorite, you could substitute with raspberry or strawberry jelly; just keep in mind the flavor will change a bit!
Barbecue Sauce: Any brand you love will do! If you want a little kick, consider using spicy barbecue sauce, or mix in a teaspoon of hot sauce for that extra heat! For a healthier version, look for low-sugar or organic options.
Parsley: This garnish adds a fresh touch, but it’s optional. If you want a different flavor, you could sprinkle some chopped green onions or cilantro instead.
How Do I Ensure Perfectly Coated Meatballs?
Getting your meatballs evenly coated in the sweet and tangy sauce is key! Here’s how you can do it:
- Mix the grape jelly and barbecue sauce in a bowl until smooth. This step ensures the sauce blends well and coats the meatballs evenly.
- Pour the sauce over the frozen meatballs, and gently stir. Be careful not to break the meatballs!
- Every 30 minutes or so while cooking, give the meatballs a gentle stir. This will help them get coated with the sauce as it thickens.
- Before serving, stir them one last time to make sure each meatball is covered.
These simple steps will ensure your meatballs shine with flavor and look fantastic on the serving plate!
Crockpot Grape Jelly Meatballs
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds frozen meatballs (beef, turkey, or your choice)
- 1 cup grape jelly
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite brand)
- Optional garnish: chopped fresh parsley
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 5 minutes to prep, and then you’ll let your crockpot do the magic! Cook on low for 4 hours or on high for 2 hours. Perfect for making ahead of time for parties or gatherings!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Meatballs:
Start by placing the frozen meatballs directly into the crockpot. No need to thaw them; they’ll cook beautifully straight from frozen!
2. Mix the Sauce:
In a medium bowl, combine the grape jelly and barbecue sauce. Stir well with a spatula or whisk until it’s all mixed into a smooth sauce. This is the tasty glaze that will coat the meatballs.
3. Coat the Meatballs:
Pour the grape jelly and barbecue sauce mixture over the meatballs in the crockpot. Using a spoon or spatula, gently stir to ensure each meatball is coated with the sauce. Be careful—handle the meatballs gently so they don’t break apart!
4. Cook to Perfection:
Cover the crockpot and set it to cook on low for 4 hours or on high for 2 hours. During this time, the meatballs will soak up the sweet and tangy sauce, turning them into a delightful treat.
5. Give Them a Stir:
About 10 minutes before you’re ready to serve, give the meatballs a gentle stir again. This helps them get an even glaze with the thickening sauce.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
For a nice presentation, you can garnish the meatballs with some chopped fresh parsley if you like. Then, serve them warm as a tasty appetizer or snack at your next gathering. Enjoy the compliments!
This recipe yields a crowd-pleasing, sweet and tangy glaze on tender meatballs perfect for any gathering!
Can I Use Fresh Meatballs Instead of Frozen?
Absolutely! If you prefer to use fresh meatballs, cook them in the crockpot for about 2 hours on high or 3-4 hours on low. Just make sure they’re fully cooked before serving!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them on the stove over low heat or in the microwave until heated through. You might want to add a splash of water or extra barbecue sauce to keep them moist.
Can I Adjust the Sweetness of the Sauce?
Definitely! If you prefer a less sweet sauce, consider mixing in a touch of vinegar or hot sauce to balance the sweetness of the grape jelly. You can also use less grape jelly and add more barbecue sauce for a tangier flavor.
How Do I Make This Recipe Spicy?
If you like a bit of heat, you can stir in some hot sauce or red pepper flakes into the sauce mixture. Alternatively, opt for a spicy barbecue sauce to give the meatballs a tasty kick!
